Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound and far-reaching impacts on small-scale fisheries and aquatic food supply chains, which are vital components of global food security and local livelihoods. This abstract explores the multifaceted effects of the pandemic on these sectors, focusing on disruptions to supply chains, market access, and livelihoods. Small-scale fisheries, often characterized by limited resources and informal operations, have been particularly vulnerable to the economic and social shocks brought about by the pandemic. The closure of markets, restrictions on mobility, and shifts in consumer demand have led to significant challenges in maintaining operations and sustaining incomes. Additionally, the pandemic has exacerbated pre-existing vulnerabilities in small-scale fisheries, such as limited access to financial services and inadequate infrastructure. This study synthesizes current research and case studies to assess the pandemic’s impact on small-scale fisheries and the broader aquatic food system. It highlights the adaptive strategies employed by fishers and communities to cope with the crisis, including changes in fishing practices, diversification of income sources, and innovations in marketing and distribution. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to support small-scale fisheries, enhance their resilience, and ensure the sustainability of aquatic food systems in the face of ongoing and future challenges. By understanding the specific impacts of COVID-19, this work aims to inform policy and practice that can strengthen small-scale fisheries and safeguard their critical role in food security and economic development.